High School Seniors to Compete in Anita Williams Peck

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Press Re;ease

Kingston High School Seniors to Compete in Anita Williams Peck Public Speaking Competition for $7,500 in Scholarships

Sponsored by the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc.

June 10, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – On Monday, June 15 at 6:00 p.m., seven Kingston High School students will compete in the annual Anita Williams Peck Public Speaking Competition for $7,500 in scholarship awards for the best public speaking presentations. The event will be held at SUNY Ulster in the College Lounge in Vanderlyn Hall on the Stone Ridge campus.

The event will feature qualifying seniors presenting five-minute persuasive speeches on current event topics of their choice before a panel of noted judges.

Three scholarship awards totaling $7,500 will be presented: 1st place, $3,500; 2nd place, $2,500; and $1,500 for 3rd place. Judging the competition will be Stephen Balantzian, Associate Professor of Communication & Theatre, and Coordinator of Media & Performing Arts, and Mary Tarzca ‘78, Professor of Communications.

Established through a partnership between the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc., and Kingston High School, with a charitable gift from Anita Williams Peck, who continued to support the program annually, the competition is designed to encourage students to refine their oral communication skills.

“Communicating effectively and speaking with confidence are among the most valuable skills students can develop,” said SUNY Ulster President, Alison Buckley, Ed.D.  “The Anita Williams Peck Public Speaking competition celebrates the power of ideas, the courage to share them, and the opportunity for students to discover the impact of their voices. We are deeply grateful for Anita’s enduring legacy and impact in making this possible, which continues to invest in students as they develop the confidence, communication skills and leadership abilities that will serve them throughout their lives.”

The College and members of the community experienced a great loss with the unexpected passing of Ms. Peck in January 2019. Longtime proprietor of Williams Lake, Ms. Peck is also remembered for her civic leadership and guidance as a past chair of the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc. Anita Williams Peck’s legacy includes her personal dedication to others, her spirit, and her generosity to so many.  She endowed the Anita Williams Peck Public Speaking Competition with a major gift to the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc., which ensures the continuation of this event in perpetuity.

This event is free and open to the public.

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SUNY Ulster Announces President’s and Dean’s Lists for Spring 2026

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June 15, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster releases its President’s List and Dean’s List for the Spring 2026 semester. Of the 328 full-time and part-time students who made the President’s and Dean’s lists, 72 are Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc. scholarship recipients.

Full-Time President’s List

A total of 102 students who attended classes on a full-time basis at SUNY Ulster have been named to the President’s List for the Spring 2026 semester, reported Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President, SUNY Ulster.

The list, compiled each semester, is comprised of students whose final average for the period of all courses taken is 3.75 and higher, plus other requirements.

The full-time Spring 2026 President’s List, by area, is as follows:

  • Accord:  Matthew Beesmer, Sophia Johnson, Nora Suszczynski.
  • Albany:  Manu Almonte-Cabrera.
  • Bearsville:  Navah McElroy.
  • Catskill:  Aidan Ryan.
  • Clintondale:  George Space.
  • Cold Spring:  Doris Jean Kolarek.
  • Ellenville: Meadow Concepcion, Matthew Urquia.
  • Gardiner:  Jordan Delano, Mackenzie Kwak.
  • Hartsdale:  Asif Bhuiyan.
  • High Falls:  Nate Borner.
  • Highland:  Maddyson Jones, Manny Markman.
  • Hurley:  Austin Bonse, Garrett Parker.
  • Kerhonkson: Janette Bower, Tucker Chase, Kendra Lake.
  • Kingston:  Chloe Auringer, Joseph Cafaro, Cristian Chun Coy, Angelica Cullo, Melissa Engracia, Riley Fisher, Katherine Jones, Kimberly Kilbride, Anne Larsen, Rui Li, Catherine Maisonet, Kaya McDowell, Claire Nelson, Leila Ohkawa, Liza Mae Robison, Lillian Sherman-Godfrey, Oliver Tixi.
  • Lake Katrine:  Hannah Blass, Scott Burke, Brianna Constable, Max Molyneaux.
  • Middletown:  Steven Potenzieri.
  • Napanoch:  Ethan Cataldi, Daniel Farfan.
  • New Paltz:  Marilyn Abangwaoh, Braxton Lehman, Austin Moore, Marisa Morreale, Stella Muyanga, Tsumugi Sakamoto, Natalia Seager.
  • Newburgh:  Robert Conti, Chase Rounds, Trisha Van Tassel-Betley.
  • Olivebridge:  Abby Taylor.
  • Phillipsport:  Richard Rober.
  • Pine Bush:  Salina Julio.
  • Poughkeepsie:  Latte Martin.
  • Salisbury Mills:  Henry Faber.
  • Saugerties:  Raya Ackert, Jack Bucci, Isabella Clausi, Christina Cox, Gigi Jacques, Riley Naccarato, Anna Peterson, Joseph Schaffer, Mackenzie Zeidler.
  • Stone Ridge:  Sophia Clark.
  • Ulster Park: Nicholas Coutant, Hans Fraude.
  • Wallkill:  Joseph Alvarado, Amin Booker, Jeff Conroy, Alex Crandon, Khalil Farrell, Pablo Garcia, Rohan Hamilton, John Hamlett, Donell Jackson, Pochly Jean Baptiste, Patrick Jeanty, Kevin Maldonado-Irizarry, Jared Manuel, Reginald McDonald, Donald Michel, Joseph Moss, Raymond Mundo, Anthony Nash, Igborakiniun Papalegba, Rasheed Rice, James Richard, Joel Roberts, Aenghus Rose, Lucien Salnave, Derven Thompson, Hasan Vaughan, Zachary Williams.
  • West Hurley:  Mara Dean.
  • Woodstock:  Adam Funk, Vivian Leon.

Part-Time President’s List

  • A total of 28 students who attended classes on a part-time basis at SUNY Ulster have been named to the President’s List for the Spring 2026 semester, reported Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President, SUNY Ulster.
  • The list, compiled each semester, is comprised of students whose final average for the period of all courses taken is 3.75 or higher, plus other requirements.
  • The part-time Spring 2026 President’s List, by area, is as follows:
  • Accord:  Ryan Brennan, Cleo Gebert.
  • Albany:  Trisha Churchill.
  • Gardiner:  Benjamin Diemoz, Adolfo Garcia.
  • Highland:  Dia Dearstyne Hoste, Tyrese Gardener, Lee Towsley.
  • Kerhonkson:  Michele Ramos.
  • Kingston:  Melissa Clark, Samuel Kane-Horrigan, Sam Wolven.
  • Lake Katrine:  Zachery Ryan.
  • New Paltz:  Leo Beaumont, Julia Breaux, Jonah Grossman, Vlada Zhilnikova.
  • Newburgh:  Stephen Conti.
  • Palenville:  Brittany Topple.
  • Pine Bush:  Johanna Neville.
  • Pleasant Valley:  Angela Curcio.
  • Port Ewen:  Matthew Wright.
  • Saugerties:  Terri McAleer.
  • Stone Ridge:  Lyndsey Borzumato-Seeman, McKenna Frentz, Phoebe Stewart.
  • Wallkill:  Aaliyah Gaston, Justin Sprankle.

Full-Time Dean’s List

A total of 155 students who attended classes on a full-time basis at SUNY Ulster have been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2026 semester, reported Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President, SUNY Ulster.

The list, compiled each semester, is comprised of students whose final average for the period of all courses taken is 3.30 or higher, plus other requirements.

The full-time Spring 2026 Dean’s List, by area, is as follows:

  • Accord:  Hunter Ridgely, Jake Short.
  • Albany:  Laiya Jade.
  • Boiceville:  Hudson Anderson, Adam Rose.
  • Brooklyn:  Neal Santos.
  • Cairo:  Lela Valles.
  • Clifton, NJ:  Austin Blesing.
  • Clintondale:  Lucia DeAngelo, Maya Kodra.
  • Connelly:  Alexis McArthur.
  • Cottekill:  Odin Vitek.
  • Dover Plains:  Amber Polocko.
  • Ellenville:  Bella Duarte, Luvian Escalante, Sara Gonzalez, Gabriel Julca.
  • Gardiner:  Nicholas Caracciolo, Tate Mattioli, Evan Trifilo.
  • Greenville:  Samuel Buquet.
  • Haverstraw:  Mohamed Fadl.
  • High Falls:  Chloe Goodin.
  • Highland:  Giovanni Arpino, Rachel Robinson.
  • Hopewell Junction:  Culann Gage.
  • Hurley:  Sean Cornelison, Bean Crane-Euvino, Troy Hajba, Wade Holsapple, Anna Tochterman, Aneska Zindulka.
  • Kerhonkson:  Jon Chamberlain, Ella Drouin, Candice DuBois, Keara Johnson, Abriana Pennacchio.
  • Kingston:  Elizabeth Amell, Gabe Auringer, Kailee Cammarata, Rafael Castillo, Mia Chambers, Cesar Dacosta, Evan Fasano, Ayla Fish, Shade’ja Florence, Carly Frasch, Aurora Garcia, Liam Griffin, Kyle Guido, Brian Hilton, Sonia Irizarry, Haven Kara Forte, Dominique Kelley, Ayden LaBounty, Jake Martino, India Martinson, Daniel Moeykens, Amber Murchison, Dylan Murphy,  Kimberly Olson, Joseph Orlando, Esther Pallas, Emiliano Ramirez Navarrete, Katherine Sagastume Beb, Katheryn Salguero, Giuliana Schleuderer, Zion Solis-Jackson, Jamie Temple, Gianna Vianello, Julissa Vizcaino, Liliana Wallace.
  • Lake Katrine:  Emily Cardis, Jillian Prendergast, Abraham Ramesh.
  • Lake Worth, FL:  Alexander Joseph.
  • Marlboro:  Charles Gent, Jennifer Waage.
  • Middletown:  Adam Coddington.
  • Montgomery:  Abigayle Wilson.
  • Monticello:  Tyler Beadle.
  • Napanoch:  Conner Beckley, Kal’el Hull.
  • New Paltz:  Gabriel DeFoe, Aidan Ellis, Benjamin Fromm, Jonah McDuffie, Mercedees Rosado, Adam Snyder, Nino Tuccillo, Jenna Vasquez, Gabriella Walsh, Yating Yang, Wendy Zhao.
  • Newburgh:  Jadin O’Neill, Giada Post, Jonathan Roosa, Angel Rosario Giron.
  • Oceanside:  Daniel Pignataro.
  • Olivebridge:  Josh Kurz.
  • Plattekill:  Jelissa Ortiz.
  • Port Ewen:  Madison McDermott.
  • Poughkeepsie:  Aiden North, Maxen Rodriguez, Alyssa Young.
  • Red Hook:  Connor Gibson.
  • Rifton:  Kaylee Galewaler.
  • Rosendale:  Matt Carvin, Emmett Feldman, Michael Sweeney, Angelina Williams.
  • Saugerties:  Denise Augustus, Dakota Balding, Katie Bucci, Sullivan Callahan, Aiden Carlotti, Cameron Churchill, Miya Gambino, Bruce Lent, Kelly Mazzuca, Holden Myers, Mya Pineiro, Caden Powers, Sydney Sidor, Jordan VanValkenburg.
  • Schenectady:  Alyse Conseillant.
  • Shokan:  Brenden Lomoe-Thompson.
  • Stone Ridge:  Ethan Bowman, Sierra Hikade, Kylie Ivan, Charlotte Smiseth.
  • Tillson:  Juliana Hartwell, Israel Valdez Sanchez.
  • Ulster Park:  Benjamin Dudley, Latoya Green-Grant.
  • Wallkill:  Michael Bonagura, Gabriel Crespi, Hamilton Croft, Shamali Curry, BrookLynn DeRosa, Camila Gomez, Willie Jackson, Shannon Lovitt, Kaia Mohammed, Giovanni Paneto, Leroy Porteous, Richard Poux, Andre Rodriguez, Maya Rodriguez, Lawrence Watson.
  • Wawarsing:  Alexander LaBounty.
  • West Hurley:  Marena Quick.
  • West Shokan:  Nico Paynter.
  • Willow:  Luca Roefs.
  • Woodstock:  Sable Bielawa.

Part-Time Dean’s List

A total of 43 students who attended classes on a part-time basis at SUNY Ulster have been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2026 semester, reported Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President, SUNY Ulster.

The list, compiled each semester, is comprised of students whose final average for the period of all courses taken is at least 3.30 or higher, plus other requirements.

The part-time Spring 2026 Dean’s List, by area, is as follows:

  • Accord:  Louise Rizzuto.
  • Bala Cynwyd, PA:  David Garzon.
  • Ellenville:  Ryan Barbieri.
  • Halfmoon:  Michael Luck.
  • High Falls:  Jade Cruz.
  • Highland:  Alexandra Grant, John Martin, Chelsea Medina, Jack Vett.
  • Hurley:  Carlos Perez-DuBois.
  • Kerhonkson:  Keitha Brown.
  • Kingston:  Marquita Byrd, Christopher Decker, Sia Duncan, Rosemary Gonzalez, Manuel Guerra, Macey Hahne, Lydia Haynes, Cody MacLeod, Michael McGrath, Desire Rodriguez.
  • Monroe:  Michele Capizzuto, Jordan Fusco.
  • Napanoch:  Laura Stevens.
  • New Paltz:  Nylla Gullickson, Spencer MendezNewell.
  • Olivebridge:  Victoria Amarilla-Barrios.
  • Pine Bush:  Isabella Neville.
  • Port Ewen:  Maeve Halliday.
  • Poughkeepsie:  Alicia Barnes, Dana Sky Faison.
  • Red Hook:  Prestell Pinckney.
  • Rhinebeck:  Margaret Gutmann.
  • Saugerties:  Tracy Lynch-Steyer.
  • Shady:  Rio Frisina.
  • Stone Ridge:  Carsyn Wolford.
  • Tillson:  Sophie Ennest
  • Ulster Park:  Kenny Winters.
  • Wallkill:  Kiera Bartelt, Grey Lowell, Michael Piaquadio.
  • Wawarsing:  Giselle Gonzalez.
  • West Shokan:  Ava Calinda.

2026 SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence

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Chancellor's Award Medal

SUNY Ulster Faculty and Staff Honored with 2026 SUNY Chancellor’s Awards
for Excellence

June 3, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster proudly announces that four distinguished members of its faculty and staff have been recognized with the 2026 SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence, one of the highest honors bestowed across the State University of New York System. This year’s awardees include John Sheehan, Tina Pfeiffer, Tess Hartman-Cullen, and Mary Prato.

These awards are conferred to acknowledge and provide system-wide recognition for consistently superior professional achievement and to encourage the ongoing pursuit of excellence. It underscores SUNY’s commitment to sustaining intellectual vibrancy, advancing the boundaries of knowledge, and providing the highest quality of instruction or service to the campus community.

Each honoree has demonstrated an exceptional record of accomplishment, as well as the admiration and respect of colleagues for their leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to students.

John Sheehan, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. A colleague shared, “John has been a mentor and professor in computer science, growing the program, building strong relationships with students, and helping them succeed. He always has a smile and takes time to help students in need.”

Tina Pfeiffer, Adjunct Instructor in Nursing, was awarded the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching. A peer noted, “Each student who has had the privilege to work with Professor Pfeiffer has gained knowledge, experience, and skills in the nursing profession. She is always willing to contribute her time and expertise to support both students and faculty and to advance the Nursing Program.”

Tess Hartman-Cullen, Assistant Librarian and Interim Accreditation Liaison Officer, received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service. As one colleague remarked, “Tess is deeply committed to student success. Whether through mentorship, curriculum development, campus leadership, or stepping up to assume a key leadership role in the College’s MSCHE self-study process, she consistently works to create a supportive and enriching learning environment. Her thoughtful, student-centered approach makes her an invaluable part of the SUNY Ulster community.”

Mary Prato, Head Cleaner in Maintenance & Plant Operations, was honored with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service. A peer commented, “Mary never walks in front of you; she walks alongside you, always making you feel that we are a team.”

 “I am honored to celebrate the faculty and staff members who have been recognized with the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence,” said SUNY Ulster President Alison Buckley, Ed.D. “This distinguished recognition reflects their exceptional dedication to our students, their colleagues, and the mission of public higher education. Through their leadership, innovation, service, and commitment to excellence, they embody the very best of SUNY Ulster and demonstrate the transformative impact community colleges have on the individuals and communities we serve. We are proud of their achievements and grateful for the meaningful contributions they make to our College every day.”

Individuals selected for this tribute are the SUNY community’s role models in their respective area. In acknowledgement of their selection, recipients are given recognition for the specific award received in the college catalog and commencement program, a letter, certificate, and a medallion. SUNY Ulster applauds their hard work and effort in going above and beyond for both their colleagues and students.

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Four Students Recognized by SUNY, Phi Theta Kappa, & EOP for Academic Achievements

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May 14, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster celebrates its students recognized for their academic achievements. Each of these individuals are pursuing careers in different fields and are on a successful path toward realizing their collegiate and personal goals.

The SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence recognizes students for outstanding academic achievements, leadership, campus involvement, community service, and the arts. This award is the highest honor bestowed upon a student by the State University of New York. The 2026 Chancellor’s Awards go to Aidan Banbury and Tuwana Leonard.

Since enrolling at SUNY Ulster in Fall 2024, Aidan Banbury, a resident of Hurley, NY, has demonstrated strong leadership as a Student Admissions Ambassador and as Student Government President for the 2025–26 academic year. A member of Phi Theta Kappa and a President’s List recipient, this reflects his strong commitment to academic excellence. Aidan is completing an Associate in Science in Individual Studies and plans to transfer to Siena College to major in Political Science. Following his undergraduate studies, he plans to attend law school and pursue a career in multiple areas of civil law.

Tuwana Leonard, an Individual Studies major who earned her certificate in General Management, is graduating with an Associate in Science while simultaneously completing the Medical Office Assistant microcredential, as the first SUNY Ulster student to earn this microcredential. Additionally, she recently earned certification as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant. Committed to academic excellence, Tuwana is a Dean’s List recipient, a member of Phi Theta Kappa and is proud to serve as President of SUNY Ulster’s Black Student Union. A Kingston-based community advocate, Tuwana inspires and uplifts those around her, including her family through leadership exemplifying resilience, purpose, service, and learning, demonstrated by completing six credentials in three years.

The Phi Theta Kappa All-New York Academic Team recognizes high achieving college students who demonstrate academic excellence and intellectual rigor combined with leadership and service that extends their education beyond the classroom to benefit society.  Aidan Banbury and David Velasquez Sierra are the 2026 recipients of the Phi Theta Kappa – All New York Academic Team.

David Velasquez Sierra of Gardiner, NY, started his journey at SUNY Ulster as a Human Services major earning his Associate in Science in Fall 2025. He aspires to transfer to earn his bachelor’s and master’s degrees with a career goal of working in healthcare and/or education in the discipline of psychology or sociology.  A member of Phi Theta Kappa, David is committed to academic excellence, is an active volunteer in his community and is a passionate advocate for people with learning disabilities.

SUNY’s Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Student Excellence is awarded to Shantol Martin. Now celebrating its seventh class of honorees, the award recognizes outstanding EOP students for their academic merit and perseverance.

After arriving in New York from Jamaica at age 14, with Jamaican Creole as her primary language, Shantol worked diligently graduating in two years with her A.A. from SUNY Ulster in Fall 2025. Throughout her time at Ulster, Shantol demonstrated discipline and determination by consistently attending tutoring sessions, meeting with counselors and professors, and staying committed to her studies while also serving as a caregiver for her siblings at home. Beyond the classroom, Shantol has contributed generously to the campus community as a student ambassador, admissions event volunteer, tour guide, and EOP student mentor. Shantol is attending SUNY New Paltz where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology.

SUNY Ulster President Alison Buckley, Ed.D. said, “I am extremely proud of our students’ individual and collective commitment to academics, service, and excellence as they reach their educational goals by starting here at SUNY Ulster and Going Far!  Their hopes, ambitions, hard work, and needs remain at the heart of everything we do. As we educate the individual and elevate the community, our students’ achievements continue to give purpose and meaning to our work and inspire our unwavering commitment to their success.”

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SUNY Ulster to Celebrate 62nd Commencement on May 16

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2026 Graduates

87% of SUNY Ulster’s Class of 2026 Graduates Debt Free

May 14, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – As SUNY Ulster prepares to celebrate its 62nd Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 16, preliminary data shows that 87% of the college’s Class of 2026 completed their education debt free, a powerful reflection of SUNY Ulster’s commitment to affordability, access, and student success.

The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. in the Senate Gymnasium on the Stone Ridge campus, where President Alison Buckley, Ed.D., will confer degrees and certificates upon 124 graduates participating in the event.

The Class of 2026 includes 326 graduates overall, with 270 students earning associate degrees and 60 receiving certificates. The graduating class spans generations, ranging in age from 16 to 72.

Among this year’s graduates:

  • 72 students earned Highest Honors
  • 69 students earned Honors
  • 9 students will receive the President’s Medal of Highest Honor for maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA
  • 49 graduates are members of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for community colleges
  • 16 students will receive the Darlene L. Pfeiffer Medallion of Excellence as recipients of the President’s Challenge Scholarship
  • 6 students are recognized as College Scholars

In addition, 23 nursing students will participate in the annual Nursing Pinning Ceremony, and 18 Veterinary Technology students will take part in SUNY Ulster’s inaugural Vet Tech Pinning Ceremony on Friday, May 15.

“Our graduates have inspired us through their hard work, perseverance, and passion for learning,” said SUNY Ulster President Alison Buckley, Ed.D. “What makes this class especially remarkable is that 87% of our graduates completed their education debt free, demonstrating that a high-quality college education can remain affordable, accessible, and transformational for students and families across our region.”

“As both a SUNY Ulster alumnus and Chair of the Board of Trustees, I am especially proud to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026,” said Robert R. Jacobsen, Esq. “Our graduates represent the strength and promise of this institution, and I look forward to the many ways they will contribute to our communities and beyond.”

The commencement keynote address will be delivered by Rodney Shealey, Advisor with HarbourView Equity and former Executive Vice President of Def Jam Recordings. Throughout his career, Shealey has worked with internationally recognized artists including Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, and Jennifer Lopez. A strong advocate for higher education and economic mobility, he has spoken at Columbia University, New York University, and Syracuse University.

The alumni address will be delivered by Marcia Zwilling, entrepreneur, songwriter, and Managing Director of the Diane Warren Foundation. Zwilling is the founder of EquestrianSingles.com, a nationally recognized platform featured on Today, CNBC, and The Oprah Winfrey Show.

Representing the graduating class, student speaker Natalia Seager will address attendees. Seager is graduating with High Honors in Liberal Arts: Math and Science and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She serves as a math and psychology tutor at SUNY Ulster, volunteers with the Ulster County SPCA and the American Red Cross and founded the college’s Criminal Justice Club.

“Being part of the SUNY Ulster community has shown me how transformative an accessible and supportive education can be,” said Seager. “I’m honored to represent my classmates as we celebrate everything we’ve accomplished together.”

Student Trustee Gunnar Bednarz, graduating with High Honors in Environmental Studies, will serve as a student marshal. Bednarz will continue his studies at Binghamton University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree focused on botany and marine science.

Guests attending commencement should note that large bags and backpacks are prohibited. Large purses and diaper bags will be subject to inspection, and strollers must be left in designated areas.

Each participating graduate will receive six guest tickets. Doors to the Senate Gymnasium will open at 9 a.m. Family and friends unable to attend may watch the ceremony live at SUNYUlster.edu/graduation and on the SUNY Ulster YouTube channel.

SUNY Ulster looks forward to celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2026 alongside family, friends, and the community.

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SUNY Ulster Celebrates 2026 GED Graduates

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GED students with diplomas

May 4, 2026 – Kingston, NY  – Fifteen students successfully earned their General Educational Development (GED) certificates in a ceremony at the Kingston Center of SUNY Ulster on April 24, marking a significant academic achievement and opening new doors for their futures. Twelve of these graduates took part in a ceremony honoring their dedication, perseverance, and hard work.

Of the fifteen students, four graduates completed their GED requirements as early as January and have already transitioned to SUNY Ulster, where they are currently enrolled and finishing six spring semester classes.

In addition, seven graduates are actively moving forward in the application process to attend SUNY Ulster in the Fall 2026 semester. Another four graduates are in the process of evaluating their next steps, considering both educational and career opportunities.

“This group of graduates has demonstrated remarkable determination and resilience,” said Curtis Turner, GED Coordinator at SUNY Ulster. “We are proud to see so many continuing their education and taking meaningful steps toward their future goals.”

The Spring 2026 GED cohort represents a diverse group of learners united by a shared commitment to personal growth and achievement. Their success highlights the importance of accessible educational pathways and the transformative impact of adult education programs.

For more information on SUNY Ulster’s GED program and to see when the next session starts, visit SUNY Ulster’s website or contact the Continuing Education Office at cereg@sunyulster.edu.

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Photo:

Back Row (left to right) Isaiah Cintron, Sophia Van Curen, Daniel Tobey, Amilian Dorsainville, Daneisha Robinson, Robert Sauers, Lilli Sanchez
Front Row (left to right) Scarlett Zubee, Jasmin Hernandez, Ileana Montalvo, Aaliyah Johnson, Paola Lopez
Not pictured: Kacie Boynes, Yeindhi Macias, Ansis Gengo Mergins

Call for Artists: Altered Landscapes

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Gloomy image of a wooded area

Altered Landscapes: At Risk – Forest, Field, Seed, and Stream
 Artist-in-Residence Series Show

Curatorial Statement

Altered Landscapes: At Risk- Forest, Field, Seed and Stream brings together artists whose work responds to the fragile and rapidly changing ecologies of our time.  Native trees, meadow plants, seed systems and the rivers and streams that sustain them are increasingly threatened by climate change, invasive species, and human-driven disruption. These changes are not abstract: they are visible now in our forests, our fields, our local watersheds and the changing rhythms of seasonal life.  

Through painting, sculpture, photography, prints, three dimensional, and video- based work, the artists in this exhibition bear witness to landscapes in transition. Some works mourn what is being lost; others explore resilience, adaptation, and the quiet persistence of living systems. Together they invite viewers to slow down, look closely, and reconsider their relationship to the natural world—not as something separate, but as a fragile web in which we are deeply entangled.

Call for Entry:

SUNY Ulster Community College Department of Fine and Visual Art and the Muroff-Kotler Gallery invites all Mid Hudson Valley Artists to submit work to be included in Altered Landscapes: At Risk- Forest, Field, Seed and Stream Fall 2026 Exhibition.  Each artist is requested to submit an Artist statement responding to the Curatorial Statement (not to exceed 300 words).  All artwork must be entirely original, authentic and created by a human artist. 

Artists working in all media are encouraged to apply, including painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, three-dimensional and video -based work. Submissions may address themes of environmental change, loss, resilience, and the rapidly changing landscape that we are witnessing. Through diverse artistic perspectives Altered Landscapes seeks to create dialogue between artists, students, and the wider community about the urgent and evolving conditions of the Hudson Valley’s shared ecosystems.

Eligibility:

Open to all Mid Hudson Valley Artists. Works must be completed within the last three years. Artwork may be 2-dimensional, 3-dimensional, video-based, or installation/site-specific.

Calendar:

Exhibition Dates – Thursday, September 24 – Friday, November 20, 2026
Submission Deadline – Friday, June 12, midnight
Notice of Accepted Artwork – Tuesday, June 30
Opening Reception – Thursday, September 24 from 4 – 6 p.m.

Media/Specifications:

All work accepted for the show must be ready to hang, be self-supporting on a pedestal or the floor, be prepared for viewing on a monitor, or be ready for display in another specified manner. 

Each artist may submit up to 5 works for consideration. Three-dimensional or installation work may include up to 2 additional detail images. Artists submitting video artwork must submit a 5 minute clip of the video for review. Potential final acceptance of video work will be determined after viewing the full video. 

Each artist is requested to submit an Artist statement responding to the Curatorial Statement (not to exceed 300 words)

Submission Format:

  • Submissions will be accepted online only; any submitted work that differs from the digital entry guidelines below may be disqualified.
  • All works must be submitted in .jpg format. 
  • All image files must be named exactly as follows: Lastname_Firstname_Titleofwork_Dimensions.jpg
  • IMPORTANT: The names of your image files must not contain spaces or special characters ( –  /  .  # etc). Underscores  _  and “ are fine.
  • Files must be 72 dpi and no more than 600 pixels on its largest side 
  • Artist Statement

Email files to: gallery@sunyulster.edu please include “Altered Landscapes ” in your subject line.

Presentation:Wall-mounted work: Not to exceed 5’ in height or width, and 60 lbs. 

Installations: May not alter the character of gallery walls, ceiling or floor. 

Pedestals will be provided for 3-D work. 

All works must be ready to install. 2-D work must be presentation ready.

Framed artwork must be wired with the necessary hanging device attached. 

Unframed works should include the appropriate hanging equipment and installation instructions. 

The Curator or Program Coordinator may withhold works that are misrepresented by digital submission or that are not adequately prepared for display.

Contact Information: 

Gallery@sunyulster.edu Please include “Altered States” in your subject line.

SUNY Ulster Announces Summer Youth Art Studios Led by Faculty Artists 

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 April 29, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster is excited to announce its lineup of Summer Youth Art Studios, offering hands-on creative experiences for young artists in a professional studio environment. These engaging programs invite students to explore new artistic techniques, develop skills, and bring their ideas to life under the guidance of experienced artists and instructors.

Each week-long session provides immersive, studio-based learning designed to inspire creativity and confidence across a variety of artistic disciplines. All classes are held from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on the Stone Ridge Campus.

Program Offerings:

Fashion Program Summer Studio with Angela Kunz

Students will explore fashion design, drawing, and sewing while creating their own wearable pieces.
Ages 8–15 | NCC 2204 | Monday–Friday | July 6–10

Printmaking Workshop with Joan Ffolliott

Participants will learn foundational printmaking techniques such as linocut, collagraph, and monotype to create original prints.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 1104 | Monday–Friday | July 13–17

Stop Motion Animation with Cassiopeia Ottulich

Students will bring stories to life by creating their own stop-motion animations using hands-on techniques and imaginative storytelling.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2207 | Monday–Friday | July 20–24

Color & Line: A Drawing and Painting Workshop with MariaElena Feerer

This course focuses on developing drawing and painting skills while exploring color, composition, and creative expression.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2206 | Monday–Friday | July 20–24

Sculpture Workshop with Sam Goldberg

Participants will design and construct unique three-dimensional artworks while learning the fundamentals of sculpture and form.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2191 | Monday–Friday | July 27–31

Film Without a Darkroom with Bryce Cassamento

This innovative photography workshop introduces alternative methods, including developing film with coffee and creating prints using sunlight-based techniques.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2205 | Monday–Friday | July 27–31

Animation Workshop with Cassiopeia Ottulich

Students will learn core animation principles and create their own projects using both traditional and digital techniques.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2194 | Monday–Friday | August 3–7

These summer studios provide a unique opportunity for young creatives to work in real art studios, experiment with new media, and gain confidence in their artistic abilities.

For more information or to register, visit SUNY Ulster’s website or contact the Continuing Education Office at cereg@sunyulster.edu.

The Filmmaking Club at SUNY Ulster Debuts Uncanny Ulster Film Premiere on Friday, May 1

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April 28, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster’s newest club – The Filmmaking Club – will debut the Uncanny Ulster Film Premiere on Friday, May 1 at 5 p.m. in Quimby Theater on the Stone Ridge campus. The event is free and open to the public.

 This event will feature a selection of original short films created entirely by club members and represents a significant milestone for the student organization.  Officially recognized by Student Government on January 30, 2026, the Filmmaking Club has quickly established itself as a dynamic and creative force on campus.

Led by president Sebastian Alarcon and advised by Stephen Balantzian, Associate Professor, Communication & Theatre and Coordinator of the Media & Performing Arts Associate degree program, the club has built an impressive roster of student filmmakers, all united by a shared commitment to storytelling.  The club has also fostered meaningful connections within the local film industry, welcoming guest speakers such as representatives from HUDSY and sound engineer, Carl Welden, offering students a firsthand look into the professional world of filmmaking.

The Filmmaking Club and SUNY Ulster invite the community to attend the premiere and support this upcoming generation of filmmakers as they bring their stories to the big screen. For more information, please contact StudentLife@sunyulster.edu.

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SUNY Ulster to Hold Mandatory Police Academy Info Session on Saturday, May 2

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Police cadets

April 23, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster has scheduled an information session for those interested in attending its Police Academy on Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This information session is mandatory for anyone registering for the Police Academy. The information session will be held at the Kingston Center of SUNY Ulster at 94 Mary’s Ave. in Kingston.

The Police Basic Training program will hold its Physical Agility Test on Tuesday, May 19 at 9:45 at Dietz Stadium in Kingston for the next Police Academy session which begins on Monday, August 3, 2026.

 During the info session, participants will learn about academic requirements, physical fitness, regulations, and more. Full program information including costs, financial aid, and application steps can be found on the SUNY Ulster website.

Acceptance into the Police Basic Training program is competitive based on performance on the physical agility test. The 30-credit hour certificate program is achieved through collaboration between SUNY Ulster and the Ulster County Law Enforcement Training Group (UCLETG) and incorporates all of the NYS approved pre-employment curriculum and objectives. In addition to preparing recruits for future employment in law enforcement, SUNY Ulster’s Police Basic Training Certificate Program satisfies 30 college credits of Criminal Justice coursework towards SUNY Ulster’s A.A.S. in Criminal Justice.

Registration for the info session is required. Please email policeacademy@sunyulster.edu to register or get more information. For additional information or questions contact the Criminal Justice and Human Services Department at truittj@sunyulster.edu or 845-688-1983.

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